Grandmommy's Gems

Ministry in Action

2012-02-11T19:53:00.000-08:00

Our Soul Patrol kids at church are performing a play called A Love Ministry tomorrow night, February 12th, and I can't wait. We just got back from dress rehearsal and these children are awesome. We had some no shows but we've been working on it for so long the others kids filled in the parts pretty easily. Praying they all make it to the performance. I have some pretty awesome kids in this group. I'm sure it will work out. God won't let us fail when we are doing it for Him.

I wrote the play so it's a double dose of excitement here. To see the kids perform my work and the pleasure of working with them. They may not believe it the way I yell (in love) but I absolutely love working with them. They are so fun and exuberant (which is why I have to get loud) but I just want to hug them all. I really do love you guys. I mean it.

The weather man is predicting snow flurries. Seriously? We've had beautiful weather, barely even had to wear a coat this winter and just as we finally settle down to do our play, snow? Not happening. Again, God is watching over us. You hear that, devil?

I'm already thinking of what we can do next. This play has puppets, singings, Godzilla, break dancing, solo's and acting all from kids ages 5 to 12. How can we top that? We may have to take it on the road. Nursing homes, here we come.

Pinterest, Play, and Plans

2012-02-08T21:52:00.000-08:00

I have been wondering around the Internet tonight. I have joined the Pinterest epidemic and still have yet to totally understand how people I don't know find my pins to repin. I don't mind, am even flattered a bit but where are the directions to this thing. I'm not totally addicted yet but I'm sure I will be soon. So far, I'm just having fun searching for pins to become so popular my inbox is overflowing with repins. My most popular yet is Red Barn with 44 repins. Cracks me up. It is a neat pic of a red barn though.

I've been looking at "organizing" pins and blogs. Funny how so many have the same pins. Like the world wide web isn't as big as we think it is. Still working on organizing our craft room. The tables are up but we still have some tweaking to add. Pictures will be coming soon. Right now I'm working on some sort of a CD holder for my stamps. Maybe a box. It'll be interesting to find out how I finally settle on something functional yet neat.

This weekend the kids at church, The Soul Patrol, will be performing a play I wrote for them and singing some really cute songs. I can't wait. One, for them to perform and two, for it to be over. We have been working so hard and long on it that they have it down pat (I hope). It is so cute and the kids are awesome. They seem to love it. The play is a fictional story about a group of kids doing ministry in a Soul Patrol . Praying all goes well and no one gets sick. Erin missed tonight with strep throat so meds should be kicking in before Sunday.

My own daughter and grandson in Kansas have strep so guess it's going around the country. My son-in-law in Kansas had an accident last night but praise the Lord he wasn't hurt and the truck still runs. Of course, that was after two tow trucks had to pull him off the guard rail. He hit some black ice and no one else was involved. Lacey sent pictures of snow, but I didn't even think about the road having an ice layer. Guess James didn't either.

So that's about it for Wednesday. I need to get to bed. Still not independently wealthy, so 6:30 am and work will be here sooner than I'd like. We always told our kids, find what you love and make a career out of it. I finally found a job that I love, okay really like. Let's just say it's the only one that I have stuck it out eleven years and plan to retire from someday. But what I really love is writing and crafting and I have yet make the money doing that as I make at my desk job. So, writing and crafting will be my fun ministry and hobby and Walmart will provide the money to fund my habit.

Find your talent, use your gifts, and God will bless you as you minister to others. Ministry In Action.

Fun Weekend, Tough Week

2012-01-27T20:29:00.000-08:00

This has been a really tough week for my family. Paige turned two on the 19th and she was sick. Nothing worse than being sick on your birthday. Okay, that was last week but bear with me.

Over last weekend Hubby and I went to the Gospel Music Artists Association Convention where I had the privilege to recite two of my original poems and try my hand at a little comedy. Is it comedy if the stories are actually true? There was laughter. I don't mind getting laughed at when I'm the one making fun of me. I hated being teased when I was kid. Yet, I always wanted to be Carol Burnett when I grew up. Maybe I finally grew up. Took me long enough. I'm almost ready to retire. I will post the video on my Facebook Page, Grandmommys Gems.

So when I came off the stage Friday night, my throat was so dry. Someone asked if I wanted a bottle of cold water. I said, "Yes, I'm dying!" I downed it before I made it back to my chair. I was so tired on Saturday but we had a great time. I only made it through two hours of the Saturday night concert before I went back to the room to rest. We made it home Sunday morning in time for church but I skipped and stayed home with Reace who was also feeling puny. At Soul Patrol play practice, I felt my throat getting worse. Drainage, allergies, whatever but finally Friday (today) I gave up and when to see my favorite doctor who gave me some meds to make me better. I always wait to go until I can't stand it and that's usually just before I get better. But, I still managed to go to work all week and muddle through.

During the week, three family members came down with what the baby had last week which was viral and flu like symptoms. Fortunately, we are all on the road to recovery and praying no one else comes down with any of our symptoms. Especially my eighty three year old Mom. She would hate me telling her age even though she tells it all the time.

Kaylyn had a birthday, yesterday, and her Mom was so sick she didn't get to have her treats until today, Sonic blasts and mozzerella sticks. Sounds yummy. I missed out due to work. But we still managed to celebrate a little last night with a nice dinner, cake, and her present from me and Papaw.

Now, we get to start the weekend all over again. After I get up at 4 a.m. to go work for an hour that is. Then we get to watch Kaylyn play basketball where I can't yell, then watch her cheer for the boys basketball. This is going to be tough. I realized two weeks ago I was yelling and waving my arms around like a mad woman. Very embarrassing. I'm sure I will have a tough time holding it in but the throat pain will probably stop me from getting too loud. I'm sure if I do I will totally lose my voice. No promise on the arm waving. Then plans to work on the craft room if we still feel up to it. So many ideas and plans, just hard to move around in there. We need a warehouse so we can empty it out and only return what we really need. Who am I kidding, we need it all.

Like I said, it was a tough week but I'm pumped for the weekend.

Nifty Thrifty

2012-01-18T20:03:00.000-08:00

I had to do an audit at a sister Walmart yesterday. It is not that far from my store but it sits right next to one of the best thrift stores ever, Casa View Thrift. I have found some really good things there so I always have to make a detour going out to my car on the way home.

My cousin asked me the night before if Mom had any old pyrex dishes as she had broke her favorite little dish and was looking for another one. I figured that was as good a reason as any to venture into the Thrift Store. I meandered through the aisles and came upon an almost hidden room full of glassware. I touch one bowl and apparently someone had left another glass dish sitting precariously half touching it. Yep, it fell and shattered into pieces. I let them know on the way out they had some broken glass in the back.

My addiction dates back to the time my Mom and I had a building at a fleamarket. We had a lot of fun scouring garage sales to find treasures to resell. We had regular customers and we knew what to buy. One collected shot glasses, one was raising his new grandson, one had a booth down the aisle and loved pottery, glasswear, etc. We found it and they bought it. Half the fun was making people happy.

We, of course, fell in love with a lot of the treasures. Old habits are hard to kick. Which is why I can't buy another cool item (unless it's really, really good and I can find a reason to really "need" it). I was good though and practiced self control and did not buy anything. We are trying to make more space, not take up more space. Good thing I'm not going back to that store anytime soon, I may not be able to control myself.

I have a weakness for glassware and my husband, Mike, cringes when I bring home another piece. I can't blame him, my China cabinet is overflowing. So here are some of the cool items I saw yesterday but left on the shelf.

Nifty Mixing Bowls

Isn't this a cool little pitcher? Pancake syrup would be perfect in this.

We needed this when we had Reace's birthday tea party

and I've always wanted one.

A little silver polish and elbow grease and we could

serve tea fit for our little princesses.

Now I'm itching to go back and check out the one down the street from there that I missed.

Autumn said she was sure they'd have the pyrex dish. Just don't tell Mike.

The Cross

2012-01-17T20:42:00.000-08:00

TheCross
by Karen Arthur

As I’m strolling all around thedusty roads in my home town,

The line of telephone polesresemble crosses in a row.

In the church just down the streetwhere we gather every week,

We sing praise in Jesus’ name, andgive thanks for why He came.

Evergreens that edge my drive,take me back to how He died.

Sometimes Golgotha feels so real,when I hike a steep, tall hill.

I can’t know the pain He felt whencrushed beneath the cross He knelt,

But I can sense the heavy load Hebore, to save my sinful soul.

Every shrub and thorny vine,blossom only to remind

Me of the crown, which tore eachgash in His earthly, human flesh.

I spot at the hardware store;nails like shaped the scars He wore,

When they pierced the hands ofGod, and the feet on which He trod.

Everywound that makes me bleed, flows to refresh my memory

Of the blood that Jesus losthanging on that crimson cross.

A metal fence surrounds a yard,like Roman soldiers standing guard,

Who shook a spear and bragged withpride, “I’m the one who gored His side.”

A window glass reflects my shame,and I know that I’m to blame,

For my weakness brought Him here,then my eyes fill up with tears.

It was all for me I know, justbecause He loves me so.

He suffered great atrocity, when Hecame to set me free.

But in death, He did not stay; Herose again on that third day,

He’s alive eternally, to light TheWay for us to see.

It all reminds me of the cross,and the ones who still are lost,

When the Savior paid the price andbecame my sacrifice.

Courageous the Movie - I give it 5 Stars

2012-01-14T00:37:00.000-08:00

http://www.courageousthemovie.com/themovie

Tonight, Mike and I went to see the movie Courageous. Great movie. We talked all the way home about how it covered the whole spectrum of life and circumstances in these five men and their families. The men from our church kicked off their men's ministry by going to see this movie and having a bible study based on it. The women wanted to see it to but we had to stay home while they had their men's night out. It's only fair since we have our lady's night outs.

We went to the $1 movies. By the time the film makes it through all the weeks of showings, the movie reel is less than perfect. Or else they just have old projectors. My friend Kim and her husband went earlier this week and has been dying to talk about it. I refused to let her so now I'm dying to call her but it's 1:00 a.m. so I guess I'd better wait.

The theatre was practically empty yet two couples plopped down right behind us and proceeded to talk and laugh during the movie. I can't believe it myself but I actually turned around once and blurted out, "Will you please quit talking?" So, if you were sitting behind me, I'm really sorry. I came to the theatre to watch the movie without all the noise, (I have enough of that in my living room), and the continuos recaps and spoilers. During one very emotional scene, I heard about it 5 seconds before it played out. It really ruined the moment. I would have complained but the place was a ghost town. It was a late showing so I guess they sent all the help home for the evening. Or, they could have been sitting behind me.

I'll pay the $7.50 next time and see the movie before it looks like an old newsreel and I don't hear the story 5 seconds before I see it happen onscreen. Yes, it might cost more and I know there are rude people everywhere but at least I'll be able to watch the movie without specks and maybe the extra cash will be used to pay the ushers. Remember them? They go up and down the aisles with flashlights and ask you to leave if you're too noisy. I should know, I took my baby one time and had to sit outside with a screaming kid while the rest of family finished the movie. It's okay, I still love ya Bubba.

Seriously though, Courageous is a great movie. I loved it. Watch the awesome trailer by clicking the link at the top. It is from the makers of Fireproof and Facing the Giants, two more great films. And it is coming out on DVD January 17th, next Tuesday. I know I will definitely buy it to watch again and I won't even complain about the kids laughing and talking behind me in my living room. I promise.

The Craft Room Makeover Project or Organizing our Hoard

2012-01-10T20:45:00.000-08:00

I should be in the craftroom working but instead I'm at my computer blogging. Well, I was Facebooking but that was not accomplishing anything except chatting with people that grew up in the same area that I grew up. I don't know them but enjoy talking about our shared history. So after looking back for awhile, it's time to be constructive and move forward.

Years ago, (I must get you caught up first) when the kids were little and we thought the house was too small (it was) we enclosed our little dining room into a 4th bedroom so the children could each have their own room. To have a place to eat, we expanded our house from the kitchen out and made a new dining room and den. It was very large and served us well, until . . . our family grew. My daughter's fiance moved in and we made him a makeshift bedroom in my den, then they got married and moved into their own house (for a while). Then my second daughter's boyfriend needed a place to stay and he moved into . . . you guessed it, my den. So then they got married and moved out. So far, so good. Nope, my son never left. He had a couple of years here and there in the Army but I sometimes think he'll never change the address on his license. As luck would have it, Autumn and Kevin came back with 1 1/2 kids and now they have doubled that to three girls.

So, Autumn and I turned the large den/dining room also into a craft room and were enjoying the monstrous hoard of craft supplies we have somehow managed to create when . . . my mom had to move in because she really can't live by herself any longer.

Guess where. Yep, my dining room/den/craftroom is now also a bedroom for Mom, cutting our craftroom by 50%. We gave up on a dining room/den. Now it's just a bedroom/craftroom.

This week we sold our pool table that came with Autumn and Kevin. It was taking up half of the room. Sad day for us but happy day for the new owners. (And happy for us crafters, but still sad.) If that makes sense to you then you understand a hoarder's mind. I have a very hard time letting go of anything that might still be good. It's true, I admit it. I watch the show Hoarders and I am disgusted and understanding at the same time. So many of their words have come out of my own mouth. I know how they feel but I still yell at them through the TV to throw it away. (Something I have trouble doing.) The nasty trash, that's disgusting and I really don't get it. But the good stuff, that's hard. The shopaholics, I feel their pain. I watch the show just for the therapeutic value. It helps me let go . . . some.

So we made a breakthrough and actually got rid of a large piece of furniture that was not being used for it's intended purpose and freed up some space which was immediately filled with another table but one that is used for it's intended purpose. I call that progress.

We are now overhauling the craft room but it's taking some time. Cutting a room in half but not cutting the hoard in half makes it really hard to work in and around. Watch for the before pics and I will keep you updated on the progress. We will, fingers crossed, have some really awesome after pics. I have already taken out a huge desk and put in a smaller table from IKEA and the wire drawers are from IKEA. Once we discovered this store the other day, we can't wait to go back. Very therapeutic. Some of the money we made from selling the pool table will be spent there for better table for Autumn's sewing machines.

Please pray for us, this isn't easy. But it is necessary. God wants us to free our space so we can free our minds. Clutter is not of God. A cluttered space creates a cluttered mind. If that's not in the bible, it should be.

It's On like Donkey Kong!

2012-01-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

Autumn (that's my daughter) jumped in on my new years resolution to be a more consistent blogger As soon as I said it, she rushed into action and even blogged the first post of 2012 before me. So we now have The Blog Wars! Well, she said that first on her blog.

So anyway, I'm sitting here at my computer and she's lying on my bed when she comments she's going to go work on the craftroom. Rabbit trail: We actually got rid of a big piece of furniture today, the pool table, out of the craftroom, and we are very excited to "try" to make our craft/workroom more user friendly. Back to story, so I say, "Go ahead, I think I'm going to write a little blog."

Her eyes light up, "Oh really, it's on." Yeah, yeah, she said that first, too. What Ever?

So now we are having more fun sharing our exploits with the world, aka, you guys or gals as the case may be. This might get interesting.

Let the games begin (you can't see this but my eyebrows are lifting up and down.) And I said that first. Yeah, you had to be there.

Check out Autumn's blog here.

Ugh Bills, Goodbye Paycheck, Hello Apple Pie

2012-01-05T21:15:00.000-08:00

Today was payday for my creditors. I'm just the middle man. Yes, they all got a piece of the pie and left me with a tiny bit of crust. Too bad I have more bills to pay. That's okay, God will take care of it. Somehow, some way, the city, state, and school taxes will get their piece of the pie. Taxes being due in January right after Christmas is just wrong.

Speaking of pie, doesn't this look good. My son-in-law makes a delicious apple pie which is why I gained some of that weight over the holidays that I mentioned in the last blog entry. Just looking at this makes me want another bite and it's all gone. Again, which is why I gained all that weight over the holidays. Sorry about that folks, I know your mouth is watering now but it's easy to make. Two ready made pie crusts and some apple pie filling. Hmmm, wonder if we have any cans of . . . Nope, gotta be good, don't look at it. Turn . . . away . . . from the picture.

It didn't work, my mouth is watering now. Where's my sugar free chocolate?

New Year's Resolution

2012-01-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

Recently, I've gained a few extra pounds. I'd like to blame it on added stress and not the excessive candy I've consumed in the last month. I'd like to but I really can't. I ran out of strips for testing my blood sugar and apparently, that meant I could go on a sugar binge. So, I got the precription filled and now I am back on track.

For Christmas I really, really wanted an exercise bike and, of course, my sweet hubby gave me one. He knew it was for a good cause and so far I have ridden at least 30 minutes a day. So proud of me. And, I have lost 5 of those extra pounds. Again, so proud of me. Only a few more to go. Like 30, but enough about me except to say my knees are really much better since I've been biking in the living room. Yea!

We had a wonderful Christmas with my kids driving down from Kansas for a week. It was chaos at my house but well worth it. I got as many hugs and I could out of my grandsons before they had to drive the 7 hours back home. Praise the Lord the weather was wonderful and they made it home safely. We were able to snap a few photos but forgot to get a new one of them head to head so we'll have to keep looking at the old one until they come back or Autumn takes the girls for a Kansas visit in the summer.

Praying everyone has a wonderful 2012.

Safe in His Arms

2011-10-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

I wrote this poem about a month ago and shared it at a Ladies Retreat a couple of weeks ago. I'd like to share it with you as well. My poems almost always have a story behind them.

I am in constant pain from osteo-arthritis and when I go to bed it takes a few minutes for my body to relax and the pain to ease up. But sometimes, when I wake up, I am so comfortable and on some days, before I move the pain is better and I just don't want to get up. I blame it on being a night person because I'd rather stay in bed in the morning rather than go to bed at night.

So I woke up one morning and as I lay in bed my customary 20 minutes (or more), I spent some time talking to God before I got up. I was peaceful and literally felt like I was wrapped in God's arms as we had our morning chat. I had a visual of trees blowing in a hurricane and how they bend to the ground but after the storm is over, some limbs are broken and laying on the ground but some trees pop back up, standing tall. And how without Jesus we are like the limbs on the ground broken, but with Him we make it through the storm.

The words began to come to me so after I jumped up and raced to work, I grabbed a piece of paper and wrote some of them down before I forgot. Then of course, edited and revised and edited some more. Later of course because, well, writing doesn't pay the bills and I was at work. In fact, I just edited it again.

I am praying for my friends going through storms right now which includes most of us. I have an endoscopic ultra sound on Friday for my pancreatic cyst to be checked out again. So far it's been dormant, and I am praying it still is but even better, that God decides to do a supernatural healing and it's gone! I'm not worried though, it's just a nuisance. Tuesday I had a pre-skin cancer on my face removed so now I have these giant red spots where the dermatologist burned it and some other keratosis off my face, neck and back. I have so many it's a lost cause to try to burn them all off. Although I wish he'd try even though it's painful. Now we just have to make sure the two he is concerned about are gone in a month. But you know what, still not worried because I am . . .

Safe in His Arms

By Karen Arthur

Lord, hold me tight in your loving arms,

Please keep me close, calm all my storms.

I hear your heart, as it touches mine,

Filled with your Spirit, I know all is fine.

I shout for joy, free from the pain,

The fragrance of flowers after the rain.

The darkness is past as I taste the dew,

The Lord then declares this morning is new.

Caress now the sunshine, say goodbye to the storm,

The Son of God saves and protects me from harm.

Sensing His presence, I bask in His light,

Then rest in His peace, all through the night.

Feeling God’s closeness, faithful always,

I know that He’s with me all of my days.

Like trees in a hurricane whipped by the wind,

Without Him I break, but with Him I bend.

To Sing or Not to Sing, To Bless or Be Blessed

2011-10-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I think too much. I call it brain overload.

I sat in church the other Sunday thinking about how much I miss the choir. We no longer have a choir so only one or two people sing on the praise team. I’m not one of them. I love to sing, I’m not horrendous, but since I’ve been at our current church I’ve only sang a solo a couple of times in 11 years. Both times I was not asked, I nervously volunteered. I discovered in the past that when I don’t sing solos often, I lose confidence. My knee starts to shake so I leaned on that leg and the other starts to shake. Pretty soon, I look more like an Elvis impersonator than a solo artist. Maybe that's where he got his moves, stagefright. Nah.

I know I don’t sing as good as some people so I think maybe no one wants to hear me sing. It probably comes from as a kid when I would attempt a song, someone always thought it funny to say, oh, please spare us. For shy insecure me, it wasn’t funny, it hurt. So I developed stage fright or an inferiority complex. Or both.

In seventh grade, my teacher gave me a nice confidence boost. I tried out for the talent show mimicking a song. She asked me to sing for her and said, you’re not bad, go ask a couple of your friends and we’ll work up an act. I became a shining star. Actually, I was a saloon girl channeling Debbie Reynolds in How the West Was Won. The memory stayed with me. It really was the most fun I ever had in grade school. Most of the time the kids teased me for being too skinny. Someone actually said I'm good enough, not bad, or maybe felt sorry for me. Probably the latter but I prefer to pretend I'm not that bad. Our trio even tied for third place. What I lack in musical ability, I make up in drama. I love acting. I can pretend to be outgoing saloon girl that belts out a tune.

Occasionally, as I sing in church, I wonder if anyone hears me. I know my voice is okay, I hear every off key note. Mine or someone else's. Maybe that's why I'm so critical of myself. As I sing to the Lord, thoughts run through my mind. I confess I am a little crazy. Do I sound good, is someone being blessed? Or cursed? And even if there is no choir, I should sing as if we’re one big choir. But I have to adjust my thinking many times. Because, instead of singing to God, I am too busy thinking about singing and being heard. Or not heard. And I wonder if the people around enjoy my voice, or hate it. I know, it’s such a fine line between being a blessing, annoying, or conceited. Why would I be conceited when I’m not great? So I think about these things. Stupid, I know when I should just enjoy worshipping God.

So, this particular Sunday, as my mind is distracted by thinking and (this is an ongoing process) I work on my attitude. I choose to sing to God, instead of trying to sing perfect and better or louder, I try to blend with the congregation like we're the choir. I think to myself, we may not be in the choir loft but I can sing like we are. And I want to sing to You Lord. Not whether man thinks I’m good or perfect or awful. But, I really want to praise and worship God in my imperfection. And that’s what I try do. I blend my voice with the voices behind me, beside me and I don’t sing for praise but to praise.

When church is over, out of the blue, this sweet man in front of me turns around and says, “You have a beautiful voice.” What a blessing I receive that day. My deepest desire is to have a beautiful voice to bless others, but instead, I sing my blessings to God with the voice I have, and then what does He do? He blesses me.

My conclusion is this, my attitude must be in line with God's will, His perfect purpose for me, so that whatever I do, I do it for the Lord, whatever my talent, I use it for God’s glory. God can bless others through me when God is the heart of my worship.

If you want to be a blessing, bless God, and if your heart is pure and your intentions right, others will be blessed as well. And so will you.

Soul Patrol Children's Ministry

2011-07-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah 29:13 says:
“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”

That is our goal ….to Seek Out U Lord!

Our children's ministry is on Patrol this summer. The Soul Patrol.

On our PATROL we are ministering to people that are on their own “SOUL Patrol”. First, we ministered to the elderly in the Nursing Homes. They are seeking the Lord and asking what his will is at this point in their lives. God is giving us the opportunity to share and let others know that He still has a purpose for their lives and He still loves them very much.

We played bingo with the residents and sang songs. We even made sock puppets on Wednesday night to entertain while we sang. The kids and residents seem to really enjoy the Friday night visit.

Sunday morning as I picked up my grandkids from Sunday School class, their SS teacher handed me a pack of papers. She said these are for William. I just saw a little boy named William run past me and I thought, Oh, did he forget his papers. I looked a little bewildered so she quickly explained that the kids told her there is a man at the nursing home named William and he is having a birthday. The children wanted to color him some pictures and birthday cards. She said I didn't know what else to do (she was asked at the last minute to sub) and the kids really wanted to do this. You could have knocked me over with a feather.

William is one of the residents, he is missing both legs below the knees and I think he is also blind. He told Mr. Mike he is 57 and about to have a birthday on Sunday. Apparently, he told the kids about his birthday or they overheard. Wow! What an awesome blessing.

Now isn't this what the Soul Patrol is all about. Teaching our children to be ministers. I had to wipe the tears just realizing that what we are doing with these children is not only ministering to the elderly, the broken, the bruised, but also to the children, teaching them to be ministers, and to the adults.I learned a thing or two about ministry from these little ones. What an awesome blessing the Soul Patrol has already been and we only just started.

Matthew 4:19-20

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁹ “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” ²⁰ At once they left their nets and followed him.

Second, we will minister to families that are going thru hard times and they too are wondering what God has in store for them. Again, God is giving us the opportunity to share his love with the parents and the children in a shelter in downtown Dallas.

The SOUL Patrol Leadership Team is very excited about the opportunities that God is opening to us to minister to those in need this summer. A perfect opportunity for us to continue to seek the Lord’s will in our own lives and to help others do the same in theirs.

William is the gentleman on the left with his hand over his mouth. Happy birthday, Mr. William.

Tripping out at the Lake

2011-06-19T00:03:00.003-07:00

Hubby and I decided it was time for a getaway from it all trip so the first week in May we scheduled time off from work. After spending our life savings on a timeshare we didn't want to let it to go to waste so we used a banked week from almost two years earlier. It was either use it or lose it.

We wanted a short trip this time and possibly a visit to the ocean. Of course, we're terrible at planning ahead so we only had a few choices left. I found The Landing at Seven Coves on Lake Conroe just outside of Houston, Texas that looked promising.

On the way, at about Huntsville, we pulled into a rest stop and discovered the most beautiful scenery with a lake, some flowers, and even butterflies.

Taking pictures of nature is one of my hubby's hobbies that I also enjoy, so we took advantage of the setting and spent some time behind the lens.

Not knowing what a vacation resort will be like when choosing online, you always hope you get a decent place to stay. I loved the idea of our balcony jutting out over the water and this time we were not disappointed.

It was beautiful, spacious, and quite comfy. We slept peacefully on a pillow top king size bed without even adding the memory foam pad we brought from home. A big improvement from some of our other home away from home choices.

We fished off the balcony and I even snagged a huge fish, okay it wasn't huge, but was a pretty nice size, maybe more like a baby. We tossed him back in the lake to swim another day.

Internet online access was not free at our resort but I managed to get a skimpy signal from the resort next door so we could keep friends and family updated on Facebook. Not to rub it in but to let them enjoy the week with us. Maybe rub it in a little. They were having storms in Dallas while we were birdwatching.

I loved spending time on the balcony feeding the ducks. They were always ready for a bite to eat.

We also noticed the other wild creatures that enjoyed hanging out with us. Two humongous snakes made their home right beneath us while sunning on the rocks. They came back a couple of times during the week for family photos sessions.

On the other side, a very large egret spent some time recuperating from an injury until he was able to fly back home. He kind of looks like a grandpa doesn't he?

We spent a day (or two) shopping at Sam Moon's and at some other neat places along the highway. Yes, I spent a few hundred dollars on souvenirs. Okay, mostly for me but a there were some friends and family that got a trinket or two.

We also had some good exercise fun riding bikes.

They were $3.00 rentals and were quite archaic.

No gears or hand brakes.

Mike had no trouble cruising around. I had to peddle hard (or walk) to get up some of the hills in the neighborhood and was very lucky I didn't go flying into the lake reaching for the hand brakes.

We spent Thursday relaxing at the beach. We rented an umbrella with 2 chairs and took turns splashing in the ocean for some photo ops.

The giant sea gulls diving into the ocean tried to snatch up a fish or two for their next meal kept us both entranced during most of our Galveston trip.

The Southern Empress docked next to our resort and one evening we captured the most beautiful sunset behind the grand historical paddle wheel boat.

It was right by the pool that we had spent one of our days freezing in while I did my aquatic therapy. Not too bad once you get used to the water. I did get a nice tan.

Mike wasn't too keen on the freezing part so he sat in the chair most of the time and burned to a crisp.

He was quite grumpy after that but we were leaving the next day so it didn't spoil his vacation.

On the way out we drove around and took some pictures of bird island and the lighthouse across the cove.

That was after our car battery went dead and we had to call Progressive to come give us a cable jump. Thank goodness for those road hazzard folks. Last vacation we called OnStar to tow us to a local dealership. Gotta spread the love around.

We came home happily renewed and ready for, okay, not really ready for work, but ready to muddle through until our next great, relaxing vacation. Our next days off will be in July to clean the garage or put down flooring so I'm not counting that as a vacation. We're hoping to make it back to Missouri in the fall to see the grandsons, and our daughter and son-in-law too. I'm afraid they're growing up too fast and I'm missing it. Gotta make sure they don't forget Grandmommy and Papaw.

God's Symphony

2011-04-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

Written November, 2004
by Karen Arthur

God Orchestrates the universe, A symphony He leads.
He does it just for me, but too, He does it just for you.

God points to all His servants, He knows just what we need.
He does it just for me, but too, He does it just for you.

His love to us He demonstates,
With nail scarred hands He orchestrates.
Each lesson that He sends we hear
As beautiful music to our ear.

When He reveals to us the Word, His messages are sweetly heard.
Now can you hear God's symphony?
He plays it just for you, but too, He plays it just for me.

With nail-scarred hands He orchestrates,
So we can know God's saving grace.
Just listen, you will hear. God's symphony is near.

Thankful - Branson Vacation - Part 3

2011-03-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

Mike and I happily drove from Branson heading to Kansas City with just enough time to make it to a very special 2 year old's birthday. We drove through majestic mountains taking in the beautiful scenery. An hour later we passed Springfield and got a little turned around when took the wrong exit on the highway. What a long 2 miles before we came to a turnaround. No problem, we just laughed at our mistake and were about pass the northern side of Springfield when Mike said, "We just lost power."

"What?"

"The car isn't running."

"Um, we're on the highway."

He edged over to side of the road and pulled in right before an entrance with a motel in walking distance. We decided maybe the gas gauge had quit working and we really were out of gas even though it said we still had a quarter of a tank.

So what to do? I'm thinking we're going to walk to that motel. Hello, push the OnStar button. Immediately a voice came on the line and we explained the issue. No problem. They even knew where we were stuck. Which is a good thing because we didn't. We were using our GPS to figure that out. They were so nice and sent a tow truck right away for free.
We had a great spot to wait, I got out and walked around in case some giant semi crashed into our car. It wasn't long before the tow arrived and we ended up right back in Springfield. After sitting for couple of hours at a Chevrolet dealership they came in and gave us the good news...and the bad. The fuel pump had gone out but it was covered under warranty. That's the good news. The bad news....they didn't have one to replace it. It had to be shipped overnight for Saturday delivery but the warranty insurance paid the shipping since we didn't have car rental on our warranty. And....

There was a rental company right outside the door in the garage of the dealership to rent a car. We are so blessed. We grabbed a cute little car and threw everything from my van into the the rental (amazingly it fit) and took off for Kansas City.

We checked into our hotel and were just a few minutes late for Elijah's birthday party at Mark and Erin's house. (James' dad and stepmom)

Unfortunately, Mike and James had to drive three hours back to Springfield the next day to retrieve my van and drive another 3 hours back to KC. Lacey and I spent the morning at our hotel room hanging out before going on a shopping spree. She introduced me to Gordman's. Love that store. You'll have to check them out. Great prices, cool stuff. The girls clothes were adorable. Wish we had one in Dallas. Although Mike is probably glad they don't.

We chose our hotel for the indoor pool since Patrick didn't get to swim again at Branson but it was so cold you couldn't get in the freezing water. So we opted for the hot tub spa and the kids had fun playing with the sudsy bubbles. If only Eli could have stayed in the spa instead of getting in and out and slipping on the tiles. I was so worried he'd bust his head open.

We left Sunday after a trip to McDonalds and a few tears and drove home through Oklahoma.

I miss my boys and Lacey and James but I know they're happy. They have a family support group in Missouri so I know they're not alone. Now when I think about them in Missouri, my picture of them is a lot clearer. They may be moving to their own house so I'll have to go back to get a new snapshot of their surroundings to carry in my brain. Plus a few for my computer. At my age, the brain gets a littly foggy.

We also had to stop at the biggest McDonalds in the United States just to go look out the window. It actually is the bridge that goes over the highway.

We had a spectacular sunset on the way home. The car did not have any more hiccups and we were very confident in our drive back to Texas. We pulled into our little circle for our vacation to come to an end and I had to be ready for work the next day. Next time I'm taking Monday off. Maybe.

As we were in the midst of car trouble, we couldn't help but thank God for the wonderful way it all worked out. Even though it was inconvenient, we were so grateful that we were out of the mountains and had a good open spot to pull over. If we had not taken a wrong turn, we would have been farther away from Springfield. We were actually just up the road a ways from the dealership. We had OnStar that sent the tow truck within 20 minutes. The dealership was open, (could have happened on the way home Sunday in Oklahoma) the warranty covered the repair, and the list goes on and on. God is so good and He takes such good care of His children.

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
I Thessalonians 5:18

Vacation part 2

2011-01-30T18:43:00.000-08:00

What a great time we had with our two grandsons, our daughter and our son-in-law James. We went swimming in the indoor pool at the Wilderness Club on the outskirts of Branson. That lasted about 20 minutes. Elijah refused to stay in the water and wanted to run around the slippery edges. We gave up and went back to the room. Poor Patrick never got to go back to the pool there. We tried the outdoor pool by our room but it was cold outside and we couldn't figure how to open the child proof gate into the pool area. Sad, I know. When we found out how to open it, we never got a chance to go back to it since the kids only had one night with us.

The shows at Branson are too expensive but we couldn't resist taking the kids on the Ducks. These are the amphibeus vehicles that drive on land and then plunge into the water. Patrick and Eli got to be captains on the water. Elijah didn't want to give up the wheel. Somewhere we have pics out of the millions on our camera disk that I will add when I find them.

We stayed in one resort area for 3 days and moved to another one in town for 3 days. The Wilderness Club was by far the best of the two. Yes, they talked us into an upgrade. Why are we so gullible? I don't know, but now we have more points and more owners fees. Hopefully, we will live long enough to figure out how to get the most out of our reservations plus our money's worth out of it all. Time will tell.

The kids left Sunday and we enjoyed the rest of the week just hanging around Branson. We didn't do alot but we tried out the Rosetta Stone on our laptops to learn Spanish, got in the hot tub at the second resort, and spent the day at Shepherd of the Hills. We bought the multi ticket and enjoyed the Sons of the Pioneers dinner, the tour, going to top of the tower to see all of Branson, and then topped it off with the play from front row and center. I literally felt the horses breath. I could have reached out and petted him if I wasn't so intimidated by his huge head. It was great.

This was my second time to see the play. It brought back many memories of our family trip we took along with some friends when I was in Jr. High. It was very nostalgic. After the play, Mike and I went down and talked to the actors after the show.

The next day we visited the Butterfly Pavillion and had a blast taking lots of pics of some pretty butterflies. It was so hot in there we were poring sweat. Downstairs we went through the mirror maze. Not a great idea for someone with claustrophobic issues but we managed to find our way out. Thank goodness.

On Friday, we drove back to Kansas City for Eli's birthday party and found disaster on the highway.

(To be cont)

Vacationing With the Kids

2010-10-18T16:56:00.000-07:00

We rolled out of Garland, October 8th, Friday morning, with stars in our eyes and happy expectations. My daughter Lacey moved to the outside of Kansas City in the little town of Oak Grove in May with her husband, James, and my two grandsons, Patrick, 7 and Elijah, his second birthday in two days on the 11th. After nine hours on the road and taking the short cut James suggested, (let me interrupt here for a moment. The shortcut may be nice in the daylight but by the time we got there it was dark and the road was very curvy, hilly, and a quite scary.) So around 9 p.m. we arrived very worn out after nine hours on the road. My arthritic knees along with various other body parts do not fair well cramped in one position for long periods of time. Still, thrilled to see our little extended family for we had not seen them since July.

Patrick, with a touch of ADHD seemed more calm than usual but Elijah, the baby, had already hit the terrible twos before his second birthday. The little stinker talks like crazy but his most favorite word is "NO!" Lacey and James are handling his independence well. Much like I did with my son when he was around two. Give him what he wants to keep him happy. Not saying I was always right, just easier. The girls now understand why we always gave in to their Bubba. Both have been guilty as charged.

Eli, or Jujah as he calls himself, is very competitive and loves every sport that utilizes a ball. Maybe even the ones that don't. If there is one. I'm sure when he's old enough to play competitively, he will not allow anyone to get, have, keep or touch the ball/puck, meaning he will either win every game or get kicked out.

Patrick, or Bubba as Eli calls him, will always be Grandmommy's sweetie. He can be a perfectionist and upsets easily but Grandmommy can always get him back to his happy self. (Later, we spent a lot of time in the Spa having fun with Patrick stealing all the bubbles. He loves the water just like me and we spent much of the trip wrinkled like little old ladies. I say this in jest because I am NOT a little old lady nor am I wrinkled like one. Yet.)

After we arrived, we talked for a while and played with the kiddos before bedding down for the night at Lace's house, I took the couch and Mike made do in the recliner. Not bad for one night only. The next morning, we hopped up, okay, some of us creaked up slowly, and headed out for a four hour drive to Branson to stay at our vacation club resort for a few days. James was able to get off work Saturday so the kids followed us down there. Patrick couldn't miss school and James' work needed him for a job on Monday, so they could only stay one night. We had to cram a lot of fun into those two days together.

(stay tuned for more details to follow)

Weekend Cleaning

2010-09-04T13:03:00.001-07:00

I wrote this little poem a couple of Monday's ago after working on cleaning my bedroom all weekend. Still haven't got back in there to finish!

The weekend is past
It went way too fast.
My bedroom’s half clean,
I got really mean.
Threw a lot away.
I miss it today.
I have more to do,
I’ll never be through.
It's no easy feat,
But it looks pretty neat.

2010-06-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

In honor of the last day of school and a fun summer,

here is a another poem I wrote for teachers. Enjoy.

Variety
By Karen Arthur

One may have a pigtail,
One always picks his nose,
One’s so shy he blushes,
One strikes a ballet pose.

Susie wears thick glasses,

She giggles when she sneezes.
Billy always has a cold

And almost always freezes.

JoJo sits on both her feet,

Sammy eats his boogers.
Tommy talks nonstop all day

And Emily loves sugar.

A typical class is a variety,

And each child plays a part,
For a very special teacher,

Who holds them in her heart.

She knows them by their differences,

She calls them all by name.
Some learn fast and some learn slow.

She loves them all the same.

Some will eat with fingers,

Others chopsticks or a fork.
Another may say grace at lunch,

But someone always farts.

It doesn’t matter how they act,
Or if they know a lot.
Each one needs a teacher
To give it all she’s got!

Memories of Charles, My Father-In-Law

2010-04-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

I can’t remember when Charles was not a part of my life. He worked with my dad, later my mother and brother. Then I just so happen to marry his son, Mike.

My earliest memory of Charles is when I had to write a report for fifth grade. I had destroyed two or three folders trying to get the title just right. My dad feared he would have to buy stock in Aladdin so he drove me to Charles’ house for him to write the title on my folder. Charles had beautiful penmanship. Later, he always signed our birthday cards in calligraphy, sometimes copying his favorite poems on the back of our cards.

Charles was great with his hands, working on cars, cooking, and woodworking. On many occasions I was the recipient of his handiwork. He also treated his wife like a queen, and when she was so sick, he waited on her hand and foot. He passed those traits on to his son so I continue to be blessed by his gifts.

Charles loved to shop for Christmas and always made sure I had at least one present under the tree at the family gathering. The year his company moved across the street from the Tuesday Morning warehouse, the tree was overflowing with presents.

Charles loved to laugh. He loved funny cards, funny jokes, and embarrassing stories, repeating them often, even if they were on him. The last time I saw him was in the hospital about a month ago. Even in his pain, the nurse made him giggle by saying he was good looking. As I typed his obituary, I accidently left out one little word, with. My husband, my sister-in-law, and the lady from the paper all proofread it and didn't notice. I know Charles would be tickled pink if he knew at his funeral, we laughed at our error and annouced that we wrote, Charles left this Earth to be -- the Lord.

Charles did not go to church as an adult and Mike and I sent up many prayers for his salvation, not sure if he ever had made a profession of faith. One day, before he moved out of his house, we couldn’t get him on the phone. Worried, Mike and Cameron went to check on him. I decided to tag along. When we arrived, I was happy to sit in the car and read my rag mag. But God had other plans, "You need to go inside and talk to Charles."

Dad was never very receptive to church talk so I argued. I just want to sit in the car and read my magazine. God was emphatic, "NO, go inside." I knew in my heart, that’s why I came. God practically pushed me out of the car so I had no choice but to go in.

The guys were out back so I sat down and started watching a TV program. The TV was always on at Dad’s house. He had three TV's running and three VCR's recording at all times. If we got interested in a show, we might not get to see the end of it because Charles changed the channel checking to see if his other shows were recording or to just watch something else without warning.

Who knew Dad was visionary. Today just about everyone I know records four or more shows at once on our DVRs and have a TV in almost every room of the house.

Mike found Dad out back in the hot sun with his riding lawn mower trying to mow his quarter acre lot. It was by God's grace he hadn't found the key to the mower. Mike came in through the back door with Cam and said, “Come on, we’re going to get ice.”

“Ya'll go. I’m staying.” Mike raised his eyebrows. Without telling him my true intention I said, “I got interested in this show.” It wasn't a lie, I can get interested in any show at the drop of a hat.

Charles walked in a few minutes after they left. Surprised to see me, he asked, “What are you doing here?”

”I came with Mike.” Like on cue, the show ended.

After Charles sat down in his big easy chair, my heart pounding, I turned and said, “Can I ask you a question?”

“Okay.”

I bit the bullet, “Do you believe in God?”

Miraculously, he was open to the question. “Yes, I do and I’m ready to go and be with Mom in Heaven.”

Wow. I didn't expect that.

Wanting to be sure he understood, I asked if he believed in Jesus and that he had died on the cross for our sins, that he rose again, and had Charles asked him into his heart?

Again his answer was confident, “Yes, yes, I do. I've made my peace with God.”

Relief flooded through me. Later, he found his baptism card from when he was four to show me that he had been baptized as a child.

When Mike and I left that day, I said, “I did it.”

A little nervous Mike asked, “You did what?”

I told him about the conversation I had with Charles. Tears welled up as he said, “The bible says if you profess your faith before men. I’ve been praying for someone to talk to Dad about salvation because I couldn’t. Thank you.”

Then next time Mike went over, Charles said, “Billie came to see me.” (Billie is my mother) “She asked if I knew God and I told her I did.”

Then Charles told Mike the whole conversation and he had even been reading his bible. Mike siad, “If you have any questions, Dad, I’ll be happy to answer them.” Praise God, He opened the door.

I was happy to know Dad remembered and understood, even if he did think I was my mom.

A few weeks later, Charles went to the hospital. I wanted to go see him, just to make sure once more. I was fearful dementia would take over or that we would lose him. He kept looking at me and I wondered, is he was thinking about our talk or does he think I'm Billie?

As we all stood in the hospital room, Leigh noticed he’d been cleaned up and asked. “Papaw, who shaved you?”

Without hesitation he answered, “Jesus.”

We laughed wondering if some long haired PCT had been his barber that day. Leigh asked again, “Jesus shaved you?”

“Yes, he did.” Confident in his answer. He could be quite amusing with his confused thinking and we always just went with it.

The nurse ran us out so we went to the waiting room. I told the others about our talk that day. Then it hit me, I said, “I bet he thought you said, “Who saved you?” Everyone agreed that made more sense.

I had my answer. Jesus not only had pushed me that day to talk to Charles for his sake, but for the family to have the calm assurance of knowing that Dad really was a Christian.

I am confident that on Monday, April 12, 2010, as Dad left this world, he was met at Heaven’s gate by his mother, Agnes, his brothers, hopefully all three will be there, and so many of his other relatives and friends, including my dad, Bill Jones. And by his beautiful wife, my late mother-in-law Elsie, that he loved so much, who, no doubt, led the welcoming committee . But none more precious than when Charles Arthur met Jesus Christ face to face. The celebration continues until we meet again.

See you later, Dad.

Paige Alexandria, Our Living Doll

2010-02-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful treat, a brand new grand-daughter to play with and help raise. She looks just like her Mommy at that age so I have deja-vu moments. If only my body didn't reject changing diapers on the floor I would feel 25 again.

Paige Alexandria Ogletree joined her sisters Kaylyn Victoria and Reace Danielle on January 19th, and she really does look like a clone of her mommy and sisters. Especially Reace. I think she looks like me in my baby pictures, thank goodness not now. I was a cute baby but who wants their baby to look like a Granny?

Our new baby girl weighed in at 9lb, 11oz so she is not a featherweight. She is now up to 12lbs. She is our little bobblehead doll. Paige pops her head up bright eyed, looks me straight in the eye, then when she sees she's safe in Grandmommy's arms, she tucks in for a good cuddle. She loves her tiny feet rubbed and if I quit, she sticks her foot out as if to say, Don't stop, Grandmommy. She can be crying one minute and passed out the next. As if she is hypnotized and with a snap, instant snooze. She loves me to sing to her. I think it's the vibrations so I'll go down low and then up the scale as she nuzzles her ear to my chest and peacefully dozes off.

Paige arrived just in time for the biggest snowfall in Dallas County in 32 years. Snow swirling around, who could resist a picture with her two loving sisters, Kaylyn and Reace.

Mommy, Daddy, Papaw, sisters, aunts, uncles and friends all dote on our new princess so she is fast on her way to spoildom. She has more clothes than I do and is quickly taking over the house. She has no room of her own so she has claimed them all. We don't mind stumbling over all sorts of baby paraphanalia, thrilled that our little surprise bundle of joy is happy and healthy. We couldn't ask for a better gift from God.

Congratulations to Autumn and Kevin, Paige's proud Mommy and Daddy.

Happy Birthday, Little Paige

Thin Places: Times where the division between this world and the eternal fades; they are snatches of holy ground, tucked into the corners of our world

2010-02-11T17:43:00.000-08:00

To share a Thin Place in my life, I go back to my last employer. The owner was very rigid and her step-children ran the company.

Then tragedy struck. The owner passed away. Without her to maintain the stiff rules, the salespeople turned into college Freshmen away from parents for the first time.

My job became a drudge. The inmates were running the asylum.
I applied at Walmart but they could not pay as much as my current salary.

On my desk, my favorite scripture, comforted me. Jeremiah 29:11; "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. "

One morning on the way to work, I begged Jesus to find me a job, close to home, same pay, and more flexible. I felt his presence in the seat beside me speaking peace to my soul.

At ten o’clock my prayer was answered with a phone call. My resume had been shared. Everything I asked for was met. Later, I told my new employer I appreciated him hiring me but it was God who gave me the job. He said, "I knew someone else was controlling my hand."

Next November will be my ten year anniversary. The longest I have ever been with one company. God answered my prayer in such a powerful way and gave me a testimony that I have shared with many people. The line disappeared for me that day when Jesus miraculously answered my prayer.

And He walks with me and He talks with me.

2010-01-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

I stroll on the beach,
While waves toss in the sea,
Clouds float in the sky,
And God walks with me.

Time is eternal,
Faith opens the door,
Jesus enters my heart,
With peace evermore.

Worries and cares
Roll away like the tide,
And my burdens are lifted
With God by my side.

I love visiting the ocean. This picture was taken at Hilton Head, SC in May, 2008. I wrote the poem this week. I enjoy adding poetry to my pictures. Or pictures to my poetry.

Our new baby. Paige Alexandria Ogletree, will be here Tuesday. I will be a proud Grandmommy again. I may have to update my header picture. Poor Reacie is sick today and we are skipping church in hopes she will feel better by Tuesday. It would be devastating if she missed getting to hold baby sister when she arrives.

I gained too much weight since my last surgery so I am starting a 21 day fitness trial on Monday. This will tell me if I really want to join a gym and if I will get my money's worth if I do. I at least need to lose the pounds I gained in the last three months for sure. On the bright side, my blood sugar levels have decreased. That does not make sense but I did add cinnamon tablets to my stack of daily pills and I have been exer-cycling daily. Whatever works I'll gladly take.

Hope you like the new poem. I will be reciting another one at the Gospel Music Artist Association Convention next weekend. I am excited to go but it will be hard to leave our new baby girl. I am nominated for the Songwriter of the Year Award and for The Special Ministry Award. I am honored to just be nominated and it would amazing if I won. The concerts Friday and Saturday night are free to the public if you would like to attend. It is at the Southfork Hotel in Dallas.

I am devoting 2010 to be my year of submission to God by submitting my writing and hopefully to be published. Years ago, I felt God called me to be a writer. I am stepping out in faith to fulfill His ministry for my life. I also feel called to speak and share God's word through my poetry or however God wants to use me in that respect. Say lots of prayers. I am excited about what God is doing and going to do in my life and in other's lives through me. We are a always a work in progress.

Thank you, Lord for your abundant grace.

Surgery, Spaghetti, Silent Auction, Sewing and a Snake

2009-10-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

The surgery went great, the ovaries are gone as well as the fallopian tubes. What a surprise bonus. I don't know why they didn't mention it or why I never asked, but I found out the day of the surgery that they were part of the deal. What do I care, I don't have to look at them anyway and they didn't offer them to me to take home. Thank goodness, I don't know what I would have said.

"Sure, wrap them up?"

Saturday night we met another milestone this year, The Annual Spaghetti Supper/Silent Auction. We raised over $2000 even though less than 100 people attended but tons of items showed up donated by a lot of generous people and businesses. Like me, I'm sure a lot of people spent more than we should have but it was for a worthy cause. The kids enjoyed themselves at their toy auction and store using free play money. It was fun for all. The proceeds fund the annual Foster and Adoption Week and Celebration in November.

Yesterday, Kristina's and Cameron's Border Collie puppy, Storm, gave us a scare. Somehow she found Autumn's dangle bracelet. She bit all the beads off and we were so scared she may have swallowed one or more of the beads that had a wire hook sticking out. She seems fine now and I am pretty sure we found all of the beads. At least I hope so. I have to put the bracelet back together now. I'll be wire wrapping the beads this time. No hooks to pull apart and swallow.

I am thinking of teaching some craft classes to make a few extra bucks. I lost 4 days work during my recent surgery and that really hurt the pocketbook. Let me know if you are close to Garland and might be interested in taking a bracelet making class or a basic sewing class. I might as well share the talent. A lot these skills have been left behind in this buy it now rather than make it day and age. I truly think we need to pass the old world skills on to our children. One lady wants her two daughters to learn to sew so I may do a child's small project sewing class.

My Granny taught me to crochet in one day when I was home sick from school and I taught that craft to Autumn. She loves to crochet and makes scarves and blankets. Lacey prefered to teach herself to knit. She took my knitting machine home and I bet she has a blanket made in no time. Uh, I guess it can be a bad thing, too, since I have also passed on my addiction of crafts to my daughters. Oh well, at least I have someone to join me in my madness.

We have a new sewing/embroidery machine to join our other 30. Not really 30, we only have ....three, er, I mean four other machines. One embroidery, two sewing, and one serger plus the new one. Oh, and the antique Singer I bought at a garage sale. Lacey put her sticky note on that one. I'm sending it home with her if we ever find it again under the pile of stuff in Autumn and Kevin's room.

It's only fair though. Mike passed on his love of woodworking to Cameron. For a month now, he toiled on a wood and glass snake cage. After finally meeting the snake last Sunday, I was surprised to find an overgrown earthworm. I'm sure it might get lost in that monster cage. At least until it reaches full size. I won't let him bring the thing home so YingYang is living at Kristina's house. I mean really, a snake? There is just no room here anyway, since Autumn and I commandeered the dining room and den for our crafts.

Goodbye Hormones

2009-10-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, the doctors have decided I need to shut down the hormone factory. The cancer I had is hormone receptive so I must get rid of the hormones. I like that in theory, just not too excited about surgery, which is tomorrow. Don't get me wrong, I am ready for it....I think. No really, I had all the blood drawn, the chest x-ray and the EKG. I am getting used to being poked, pricked, and prodded. The pain goes away with pain pills so that's a big plus. I don't like the dizzy feeling but hey, it's better than pain.

What I really don't care for are the hot flashes. Yes people, hot flashes. In case you have not been privy to one of these mega furnice feelings, let me describe it. First you are happy, enjoying a good time, feeling great, and maybe even a bit chilly, when suddenly a heat wave moves straight into your face, you suddenly turn red, and the heat bubbles from the inside of your body working it's way out through every pore. You rip off whatever top layer of clothes can be removed without being arrested for indecent exposure, (if at home, you get indecent anyway). The kids run off to the their rooms and hide under the bed. You turn up all the ceiling fans and air conditioners to the coldest settings and then stand in front of the blowing vent while still drenched in sweat. Just when you are about to stick your head in the freezer, suddenly it goes away and you are freezing. While covered up in blankets, you dare anyone to turn off the air just in case another flash appears in the blink of an eye. And it will.

Anyway, that's about 1/10th of what a hot flash feels like. I'm sure my ovaries have quit producing these wonderful, yet evil monsters anyway since I have been having these wonderful flashes for quite a while. Especially since I quit the hormone therapy last year, but I can't help but think that the few hormones they do make (that the meds don't kill), probably have been helping to quench these relentless fire spasms somewhat. After tomorrow, you might want to bring your big coat with you when you are around me because I will be in the tank top looking for the nearest air vent to stand, sit, or sleep beside. Also, you might want to stand down wind.

So tomorrow, I say goodbye to hormones, a lesser chance of cancer, and hello to portable battery operated fans.

Weekend Retreat growing closer to my best friend, Jesus

2009-09-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

What an awesome and peaceful weekend I enjoyed with the ladies from church. We had a great speaker, great singers, and great food. The Lord was the highlight of the weekend showing up from the beginning to the end. Well, I don't believe it's over and He is still with us as we go away equipped with the tools we need to face whatever Satan tries to throw at us. We are not to talk to snakes and recognize lies for what they are, lies! We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and not let the enemy get a stronghold in our life. The most important part of the lesson Ms. Sandy Stiles brought to us was not to talk to snakes and to devour the Word.

John 1
The Word Became Flesh 1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was with God in the beginning.
3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4In him was life, and that life was the light of men. (NIV)

John 1:14
14The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

The Word is Jesus and when we get into the Word we are getting to know Jesus. When we memorize scripture, we are carrying His Word with us and we can fight the enemy.

How awesome is that. I know I plan to read and study my Bible more than I have been. I really want to dwell in His presence.

Jordan Self and Ginger Weeks brought some wonderful music along with praise and worship. Sandy shared the story of her life and how God has used her painful past to help others. Three ladies from our group stepped out of their comfort zone to lead small groups and did a great job.

It was all amazing, expecially at the end when we all joined together in a ceremony at the end for God spoke to each of us in His own way. It was all confirmation of God's supernatural presence.

To think, I almost missed it. I am so grateful, Ms. Debbie encouraged me to join the ladies in this wonderful weekend.

Thanks to all who attended and to the leaders for the sacrifice they made to give up their weekend to spread God's word. I know these ladies do not consider it a sacrifice but a blessing while sharing that blessing with us all. Praise God for whom all blessings flow.

Our Army Man is Home

2009-08-26T18:30:00.001-07:00

As we drove down the lane coming into the armory, flags lined the drive and families with signs anxiously waiting all the way down the sides of the road. Luckily, we managed to get a front row parking space and got out the one lawn chair that happened to be in the car. Yes, Momma got it while Daddy pulled out a folding table he placed on the grass to sit on. Sorry, but Momma don't get up and down as good as Daddy does.

Cameron called regularly with updates on his location as they rolled into the DFW. The community came out and lined the streets of the little town. Only family members were allowed into the Armory, the unloading zone. We could see the buses as they passed down the highway with their police escort, lights flashing, and the motorcycle club The Freedom Riders horns bellowing as they escorted them into town. They passed our turn in and looped around Wylie for the community to show their support. What's another few minutes for the proud family members to wait while their soldiers were honored by the townsfolk.

We called Cam on his cell phone to see which bus he was riding in and what side he was sitting on, bus driver or door; 1st bus, 5th seat behind the driver. Then they rolled in past Walmart to the waiting crowd. We were all bursting with pride and excitement. Cheers erupted. Sirens and horns leading the way. As the first bus passed, I was all set to see Cameron in the window. There he was, maybe. The window was tinted so dark we could barely make out a hand waving. I took a picture anyway but I don't think I got the right soldier. Really, who's going to know. I don't. It's going in the book!

We ran to the buses to watch our service men file off one by one to the waiting wives, children, girlfriends, fiancees, moms, dads, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, grandparents, and other army buddies. Each were grabbed, hugged, kissed, and/or photographed. Some had to search for their family members through the sea of heads. As Cameron climbed down the steps, he turned and saw me right away. I was the face behind the camera snapping as many shots as fast as my camera would cycle. Finally, as my son made his way to me he said, "Okay Mom, no more pictures," and gave me a big hug. Then he hugged his Dad, his sister, and both nieces. He looked around and his fiancee, Kristina, was hanging back but his eagle eye spotted her and pushed his way through the crowd. The scene was far better than any ad Hallmark could dream up. It was very sweet.

Yes, my son made it home from Iraq safe and sound, and I praise God. You see, a couple of his comrades were also waiting to see the buses arrive. They came home a few months earlier due to a car bomb that caused an arm injury for one and almost killed the other. Alive and on crutches he was all smiles for the homecoming. He spent several weeks in the hospital after losing a good portion of his back. It was heartwarming to see the all the soldiers line up to shake his hand and give him a gentle hug. They had their final formation and were dismissed.

Starving, we made a trip to the Steak and Shake, and then flew home to crash into bed. I have no idea what time Cam went to sleep but I was out like a light. Happy, relieved, and thanking God for having my chick back under my wing, safely home.

First Day of School

2009-08-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, my sweet baby girl grand-daughter, Reace started Kindergarten today. She went right into class and told her Mommy and Daddy, "You can leave now."Then she began smashing the play dough and rolling it back into a ball that the teacher had waiting for her on the desk.

Mommy said she thought Reace was trying to be brave and not cry. She did a great job at it. Mommy even did a pretty good job not crying. I, on the other hand, was at work and had to dry my eyes when Autumn called to tell me how brave our big girl behaved today.

Reacie's take on the day, "I almost froze my head off, it was chillin in there."

When asked how she liked school, she said with a smile, "It was fun and enjoyable." And she also noted that she made two friends. I'm excited about that since she doesn't have any friends her own age, they are all older or younger.

She sang The Itsy Bitsy Spider song for me from music class and corrected me on the motions. Apparently 50 years ago we did it all wrong. She swears the music teacher was at our church pool party last week. I believe it is because she is blond and has a tattoo around her ankle and apparently so does a blond lady from our church.

After playing all afternoon, I went outside and sat in the lawn chair while they played with the puppies and she crawled up in my lap and said, "I'm so tired" as her little eyes shut and I had to remind her she still had to take her bath and get ready for tomorrow. Of course, this was right after getting in trouble for almost running down the puppy with her bike, the one she is grounded from riding. Yes, Grandmommy is a bit of a pushover.

Kaylyn, my third-grader grand-daughter, took to school with her usual exuberance. She was up at 5 a.m. Probably the only day of school that she will be up that early. They were both dressed, with their backpacks ready to leave the house before the school even opened the doors. Mom and Dad held them off as long as possible arriving 20 minutes early.

Kay got a bit of an attitude with her Mom over homework and taking the puppies outside to, well, you know, and had to apologize. Now she's into kissing up by telling Mom, "Do you know who's prettier than me? You!"

Reace, the little Diva, asked, "What about me?"

My 1st grader Patrick is in another town so after work Lacey called but Patrick was too tired and grumpy to tell me about school. He said he needed a nap but he wasn't going to take one. He didn't want to get up early this morning. When Mommy went in to wake him, he said, "Only dorks get up early." Wonder what Papaw would think about that since he gets up between 4 and 5 a.m. Not me, I'll never be accused of being a dork. He apparently had a good day and notated all the girls in his class he knew from last year. Our little Don Juan.

Since Elijah is only 10 months, he got to have lunch with Grandmommy, Aunt Autumn and Mommy, of course, all by himself. He is reading now. It's sort of a humming noise but he loves to read. I believe he'll take after his Aunt Autumn in that respect. We're drowning in books from her trips to half price books.

So now all clean and with the big day behind them, all my little darlings are safely tucked into bed with sweet dreams of another "fun and enjoyable" day at school tomorrow since they all want to go back. Thank goodness, neither me nor my girls are cut out for home schooling.

Here is a poem I wrote this for teachers everywhere.

First Day of School
By Karen Arthur

May 2009

As you watch their little feet
Pad across to their new seat,
You have a tiny, little panic attack.
But don’t sell yourself short,
Just show them love from your heart,
For they are willing to give that love back.

Little Mary in row two,
Looks like she’s ready to,
Give up her lunch before the bell rings.
And poor Johnny over there,
Is asking you, “What’s a square?”
After explaining it 12 times it seems.

As they march out this first day,
Backpacks dragging all the way,
All you can think now is “How did I do?”
Just ask the parents if you dare,
They’ll let you know how you fared,
And how much each little angel loves you.

With lots of hugs and a some prayer,
They learn so much from you there,
While today you helped mold their little minds.
It may be the just the first day,
But what you both take away,
Will be remembered for each one’s lifetime.

Waiting For Surgery

2009-06-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

I missed posting in May so here is a quick synopsis. We had a great Mother's Day, took Mom to the Arboretum with all the kids. Lots of fun.

Cameron came home on leave. He kept it a secret and knocked on my door at work. It was awesome. He was home for two weeks, and got engaged. Now, he is back in Iraq and starting to pack up for his return in August for good. Then he plans to get a part time job and go to college. I am excited for both Cameron and Kristina. They are waiting two years to get married until she finishes college.

Then, Autumn found out she is preggy and it is absolutely unplanned. We are excited, she's still sickly but I can tell they are getting excited. They may even start looking for a place to call their own. I'm not sure how we'll handle the separation. We are pretty intertwined. It'll be like a divorce, what's mine and what's yours. Oh what the heck, take it all. I'll get new furniture.

Now we are up to June and my life does not slow down. What fun would that be?

My surgery was cancelled twice and now I have to call Monday to find out when they rescheduled. What a bummer. I was all psyched up for it. The power went down at the surgery center and it was changed from Friday to Saturday. They didn't get the power going by Friday afternoon so now it's changed to whenever. I am ready to get this done and over with so keep your fingers crossed and your prayers coming.

On the bright side, we bought a new seat for the bike I'm starting to ride. A big seat for my Big Seat. I rode it around the pond at the park twice and back home. It is much more comfy than the itty bitty seat I had. I am working on living with arthritis and exercise is the best thing for it according to the doctors.

I decided to take up golf so I've been outside swinging the club. It's not as easy as it doesn't look. My arthritic hands are aching now.. and my back. But I'm going to give it a try since Mike and Cameron love it so much. I wanted to see if it was all that and a bag of chips. Kristina said she'd help me. It is so hot outside. These guys will play in the heat, cold and rain. I know I'm not going to love it that much but I like hitting the ball. It reminds me of softball and how good it feels to get a good solid hit and then watch the ball fly into the outfield. Unfortunately, I want to hold the club like a baseball bat. It's not exactly the same. So far, I've only hit the practice balls in the front yard and they aren't going that far. In fact, I'm lucky if it gets airborne. But I have high hopes of eventually making it to the driving range and not embarrassing myself. We will see if I ever make it to the actual course.

I have lost a little weight. I don't know how much to say I've lost. At one weigh in a while back I went pretty high and panicked but I am down 9 pounds from that catastrophic total. You know how weight goes up and down during the day so I weigh every morning and when I started my diabetic meal plan I weighed in and I had already started walking a mile a day and exercising so I had lost a little before that so I guess I can say I've lost about 5-6 pounds which is good. I am shooting for a pound a day but I'll settle for a pound every 3 days to keep at a steady pace. I would tell you how much I actually weigh but I'm not that transparent. I'll let you know when I reach my goal weight.

I forgot to mention I took a really long nap after the bike ride. Man that mile wore me out.

It's my only body and it has to last a lifetime. That's what I've decided. No one can do it for me, I have to step up and take responsibility. That's why I'm getting more exercise. I'd rather malinger but I'd just get fatter than I already am!

Father's day is next Sunday and Autumn's 10th anniversary is Thursday. So, they'll probably schedule my surgery that day. That's how it usually goes since my mastectomy was on my mom's 80th birthday. At least I will remember the date of my surgeries. Every medical questionnaire asks about every surgery you've ever had and who can remember what year you had a cyst removed from your finger. So take note, keep a medical journal and write everything down. It will definitely come in handy someday. Trust me.

I added a post to my www.caringbridge.org/visit/karenarthur website. I know some people still think I've had surgery today. They'll be surprised when I show up at church tomorrow and work Monday. I have to go in since I need the personal time for the real surgery. I had it all setup and everything to be off next week. I even got flowers with a card, "Best Wishes for a Speedy Recovery" from my coworkers. They're really pretty and I am enjoying them. Hope they are still pretty when I am actually working on a speedy recovery.

Happy Easter - New Poem

2009-04-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Holy Bible
Karen Arthur
April 11, 2009

Not just words, on printed page.
Not a biography full of rage.
But love and joy, timeless truths,
Pain and sorrow, family roots.
Not just poems or David's psalms,
Solomon's ode, or judging wrongs.
True stories of our heritage.
Adam's fall to what John said.
How to act and how to pray.
The passion of that fateful day.
The birth, the death, the miracle.
The reason we may feel the pull.
The Word was first, God held the pen.
He did it all, for every man.

Family Reunion

2009-04-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

We had a Jones family reunion last weekend. Wow, what a great turnout. We lost two cousins last year and we had a moment of remembering these precious lives. Our theme this year was Celebration of Life and I wrote a poem. Each family sent pictures to cousin Denise and along with her brother Rick put together a pictorial history of the family and handed out DVD's. We watched video of past gatherings and a lot of the aunts and cousins were in the video that are now watching from the best seats in Heaven. It was bittersweet seeing them laughing and having fun. Rick's wife sang Ten Thousand Angels. The music wouldn't play and bless her heart, she sang it without the music. She did a beautiful job. I'm sure I would have been shaking like a leaf. I love to sing but I get nervous when I sing a solo. I need other voices to be bold.

We had tons of great food. If you put one teaspoon of each dish on your plate, you would need 3 plates at least. I tried to hold it down to one plate and I missed our own corn dish. Everything was delicious.

I gave a short speech about getting tested for the BRCA-2 gene mutation since it is present in our family and I think everyone should be tested. That way if you do not have the mutation you quit worrying about having it and if you are positive, you can take precautions so you will not have to get cancer or at least you can catch it fast like I did.

After the reunion, my cousin Tommy and his wife Sherry, and Denise and her kids came over and we had so much fun. If laughter is the best medicine, we all had big dose of it. Sherry couldn't believe our craft room. We call it Mini-Michael's. We could open our own craft store. We are still organizing and pics will be added soon. Hopefully. That is in our plans for today.

I will also be checking the Internet to see what is good to eat and not good to eat for osteoarthritis, diabetes, acid reflux, and high cholesterol. Then I am going to make a chart and see what overlaps. Hopefully there will be enough items left on good side so I can go shopping. I really need to lose some weight and I'm sure anything on the good list will be less fattening. I've been eating berries and walnuts this week. I am getting back to nature. Mmm. I really like that stuff. I may plant a berry vine.

I updated my www.caringbridge.org/visit/karenarthur blog yesterday. Feel free to read about my latest doctor visits.

Now, here is the poem I wrote for the reunion. I hope you enjoy it.

Celebrate Life

copyright Karen Arthur, March 27, 2009

Celebrate life while you’re here today,
Don’t take it for granted or throw it away.
For we’re born, we live, and then we die.
But there’s much more to the measure of life.
When born we’re under a parents care.
Taught how to live, taught how to share.
How to walk, to talk and act.
Follow the example, stay on track.
We live, we love, we laugh, we cry.
We can’t give up ‘til we get it right.
We praise, we worship, we bless God’s name.
We raise our children to do the same.
No one knows just where it went
Yet health begins its steep descent.
Bones get brittle and bodies ache.
Hard to believe we deteriorate.
Memories fade as years roll away
It seems like youth was yesterday.
Then time is up and we must go
But it isn’t death that takes us home.
For life is on the other side,
Believe in the Son, He’ll be your guide.
We’re born to live again with Him.
Our life has meaning, a hidden gem.
Leave a legacy behind
For loved ones left to surely find.

Fun in the Sun and Rain

2009-03-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

Well, Mike and I went on a super nice vacation and celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary.

On the way I realized I forgot my bathing suit so we stopped at a Mall on the way and bought a really cute one. It's looks just like my old one but its polka dot and new. We got in the hot tub once but it was worth it. I got a new suit. he he

It was so peaceful I think we almost got a little bored. Hubby doesn't like to sit still. I took my keyboard to play around but forgot the cord that attaches the midi to the computer so I couldn't record the song I was writing. We checked around in the tiny, town in Texas that had a Walmart and 2 music stores but no USB midi interface cord. I called one of music stores and he asked if they even made one. Gee, I just made up the name I guess, huh? Duh! Oh well, guess I wasn't supposed to record my song this week.

Our bed was pretty hard and we're used to a feather bed, so we trucked to Walmart on Saturday and bought a memory foam mattress pad. Nice. And, we can still use it. The couch sunk in so bad, I'm not sure I could get up even if my arthritis wasn't bothering me. So we bought a long pillow to sit on. Not great, but better than nothing.

We went golfing one day. Hubby golfed while I looked for balls. Then he lost the extra balls I found. A few went in the water. He asked me to toss him another ball, which I did, right into the water. Good thing I found some while we were looking for the ball he lost in the woods.

We exercised a bit in the the room set up at the timeshare club house. Okay, 2 days we exercised. I thought the machine had 10 lb weights but Mike had changed it to 20 lbs when he was working out. My shoulder about killed me the rest of the week. I had to take super strength Tylenol just to be able to sleep.

We went on a couples day out with the activities director and we were the only couple but it was a lot of fun. She took us to another itty, bitty town and went to a place called Heritage Village where they had all this old stuff. I could donate a few things from my house since I saw a LOT of my old stuff in there. Makes you feel good when you see your first sewing box (I still have it) in an antique store for $14.00. I put it in the garage sale the week before for $1.00 and it didn't sell. Now I'm thinking of keeping it. I don't know why, just because someone thinks it's valuable, I guess. It's nostalgic. The name of the store is Junktique. That should tell me something. Their motto is "Your grandmother bought it, you mother sold it, and you can buy it back." Cute, huh.

Unfortunately, my kids are not savers like me. I'm a pack rat and want to keep everything. My kids want me to throw it all out. I don't see my daughter getting rid of her stuff so fast. She has a Walmart sack of tin cans she might make into pencil holders. Hellooo! We open new ones every day!!! Love you Autumn!

Anyway, back to our trip. We dined at a quaint little restaurant that brought out bowls of food and a big plate of fried chicken. All you can eat. I couldn't eat that much because I'm trying not to eat fried foods. I felt like I was home with Mom. The food was great.

I was feeling bad about not bringing my beads to work on so I bought some at Walmart and some tools. Of course, I never got around to making anything but I did change some earring wires for the lady that took us on the couples day out. So it wasn't a total loss.

I had to planned to make it a Biggest Loser week by eating healthy and exercising. With all that, I gained 3 lbs. Maybe, I'm not sure, but maybe it was the steak we grilled for our anniversary dinner. Or the baked potatoes. But I don't think so. More likely, the sitting around doing nothing. No complaints here. I don't have to be moving all the time. My body agreed with me since I had to be helped up every time I stood up. The arthritis was so bad, I bought a knee brace. Not sure it helped but the ping pong was pretty strenuous.

We rented movies and watched a really cute one called Music and Lyrics but the rest were just okay. It started raining Wednesday afternoon and it starting getting really cold so the hot tub and pool were definitely out. By Thursday morning we had about 2 - 3 inches in front of the door. We needed to switch movies so, believe it or not, we went out the sliding glass door and I climbed over the fence. I know!!! Mike put a chair on both sides and I managed to get over. I didn't try it on the way back, I just balanced on the flower bed rails and managed to get back in without drowning. Friday morning, it started again and we couldn't load the car so maintenance came and cleared the sidewalk and put down stepping stones. Poor Mike had to carry all the junk we brought and had bought to the car in the rain.

And all good things must to come to an end. We drove home on Friday and reluctantly went back to work on Monday. The helper in my office was only able to work in there two days but she had the paperwork separated and ready for me. Unfortunately, I had an all day meeting on Tuesday and had to go to another store all day Wednesday. It's been over a week and I'm still trying to get caught up. It never fails, we have to pay the price for taking off but it was worth it. I'm already looking forward to the next one.

New Poem

2009-01-18T13:57:00.001-08:00

We are headed to the Gospel Music Artist Association Convention next weekend. I recite my poetry instead of singing so here is the one I wrote this week. I think I might read it at the convention.

Savor the Moment

Are you too busy to stop and pray?
To find the pleasure of each new day?
Do you race to and fro without any fun?
Do you spend your free time on the run?

What’s for dinner? Time for bed.
Turn on the TV my brain is dead.
Sometimes we forget to take a deep breath.
Savor the moment and forget all the rest.

So hug the kids and kiss your spouse,
Take a break from cleaning the house.
Buy everyone an ice cream cone,
Have some quality time for your own.

Give God glory, whisper a prayer.
Thank the Lord for being there.
Life’s too short to dash it away.
Savor each moment and seize the day.

I'm living pink!

2009-01-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

I am a breast cancer survivor of three months. I am very blessed that the cancer was detected by a routine mammogram and it was very tiny. I had a bilateral mastectomy and reconstructive surgery on November 26th, my mother's 80th birthday. I had this surgery as opposed to a lumpectomy because I tested positive for BRCA-2 gene mutation, which increases my chances of recurrence by 55-60% instead of 10%. Now, my chances of recurrence is down to 5-8% and with the pill I will be taking it is even lower at 1.5-2%. My dad died of pancreas cancer and when they did all the preliminary tests they found a cyst on my pancreas. It was aspirated on Dec 18th and found to be normal. So now I am ready to move on. The lymph nodes were clear so I did not require any chemotherapy or radiation. There are a few more surgeries to complete the reconstruction and remove my ovaries so I won't have to deal with the chance of ovarian cancer. I am 55 and do not plan to have any more kids. I have three grown children and they have four grand kids between them so we're good to go. That surgery will be after the other is finished. That's okay, I have a great faith in God and all this has been part of a bigger plan. My family is taking precautions and having the gene study so I know the cancer deaths in my family and the survivors are saving the lives of the rest of our big brood. My dad had a lot of siblings and they have a lot of offspring so there is a bigger purpose in place. God has used me to save my family. I feel special for having been chosen. He knew I could handle it and as painful as it was after surgery, I am feeling so grateful today for being an instrument of God.

The pain is pretty much gone or minimal and I go back to work on Monday. That should be fun. I've been laying around and getting up late for five weeks so I don't know how I'll make through 8 hours but I'm going to try.

So, now I'm thinking pink. My jewelry I've been making lately has a lot of pink ribbon themes. My clothes are pink. I'm not trying to show off, it's just that pink has a whole new meaning for me. I totally understand it now. So many breast cancer survivors came up to me and offered support. It's like a club you don't want to join but you find the nicest group of people once you get in. I was welcomed with open arms and caring hearts. What a great year this is going to be.